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Philadelphia Phillies: 3 reasons to hand Theo Epstein a blank check

By David Esser

Apr 29, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein on the field before the game between the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 29, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein on the field before the game between the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 26, 2020; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) celebrates after hitting a one-run single during the seventh inning of a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Mary Holt-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2020; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies designated hitter Bryce Harper (3) celebrates after hitting a one-run single during the seventh inning of a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Mary Holt-USA TODAY Sports /

Keeps Bryce Harper happy.

Somewhat building off the previous point, Theo Epstein’s presence in the organization would likely settle Bryce Harper’s nerves a bit in regards to the overall direction of the franchise. While it’s highly unlikely that he would ever request a trade, it’s not unreasonable to think that Harper is less than thrilled with where the team is at currently.

They’ve missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, and JT Realmuto is currently on the open market, likely set to sign elsewhere. Harper also just watched the LA Dodgers (a team that aggressively tried to sign him back in 2019) win the World Series, while he was sat at home on his couch.

Theo is extremely well respected in the baseball world, and would likely assure Harper that he would surround him with the appropriate pieces. He built around Kris Bryant perfectly in Chicago, and would undoubtedly do the same with Harper in Philadelphia.

Next. Philadelphia Phillies: 3 sneaky good free agent signings to make. dark

The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to aggressively pursue Theo Epstein regardless of his intentions to take a year off. Landing Theo would come at quite the cost, as he’s rumored to be interested in partially owning a baseball team moving forward. Even if that’s the case, Phillies owner John Middleton should oblige, and do whatever it takes to land the esteemed executive.

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